the story continues

GeorgeTheCrook says—erv, there is usually more to the story than what you write.  Most of the time, there is more to the story than you even know about.  I agree GeorgeTheCrook?  There might even be more to the story that we tell others (i.e. like we might not tell the whole truth).  Could be!

They didn’t listen to a word I said!  I called The Waterloo Courier to have them put my paper on vacation hold while I was gone.  They didn’t listen to a word I said; they kept delivering it while I was gone.  Now ain’t that something. Maybe they didn’t understand me. Could be.  MissPerfect says—Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things. Soooooo what can I do about this situation?  One of the easiest things is tooooo just go forward; forget about it.  It’s only a few bucks.  Right?  What do you think I did? The story continues.

While eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it, I read what RickyRick wrote—"Here’s some good news: Your brain stores everything. But it’s also bad news: Your brain stores everything. Your brain can’t distinguish between what’s imaginary and what’s real. It takes in both truth and lies. You have stored all kinds of garbage in your brain. And whether you realize it or not, often you base your decisions upon that garbage” Take that into consideration when reading this “It’s Saturday.”  Sooooo folks, what I write is based on the impute in my brain and how you interpret it will be based on the impute in your brain.  JoeBlow says—Now that makes for a lot of variables; God only knows how this is going to turn out (i.e. “stuff written” can mean different things to different people because of a lot of different reasons). That is why we don’t always understand each other.  We are programed differently because of our past environment and our genetics.  Don’t kid yourself.  Now that is the “long tail” of the matter. Such is life

Here is something interesting I learned while hiking in the back country of UT.  One of our guides had pancreatic cancer.  He decided not to take chemotherapy but instead took a cocktail including a heavy dose of Vitamin 13 which is not legal in the U.S.  He has been cancer free for about 2 years. The story continues.

I think some folks make me happy and some folks take away some of my happiness!  Yikes! I really do.  Why is that do you think? And the story will continue!  Our neighbor down the street says--Few things rob your happiness faster than being criticized or feeling like others are working against you. Why? Because we all want to be loved. We all want approval. We all want people to like us. You don’t need other people’s approval to be happy. You’re as happy as you choose to be! If others are unhappy with you, that’s their choice. If you haven’t earned someone’s approval by now, you’re probably not going to get it. And you’re going to be miserable if you try to live for the approval of everybody else. You can be happy no matter what happens if you look at every problem from God’s viewpoint and never let what other people say or do control your happiness. I believe that but it’s sooooo hard to stay in that focus.  I think I have to be around folks who share that thinking (i.e. my opinion).  What do you think? That is what I thought.

One of our guides told us that he thinks there are many native folks of Kanab who have never seen the National Parks including the Grand Canyon even though they are all in their back yard.  Many folks travel from all over the world to see them and they live within a few miles and don’t go and see them. He just can’t understand that. The story continues. 

I read this in the paper soooooo it must be right—Matt Campbell, IA State’s football coach, is well like by everyone it seems.  One of the reasons is that he makes you feel like you are right. He also makes folks feel that they are part of the coaching staff discussing issues in the coach’s office.  He makes you feel part of the effort.  I would assume that means that he is a humble person and real, but I don’t know him personally.  He appears that way though; that is the impression he gives me (i.e. whatever that means). My interpretation of the big picture is—Humility seems to work a lot better than huge massive egos!

Folks who are with Hospice are sweet and tender folks.  Not rough and aggressive but sweet folks. They have sweet caring hearts.  Someguys and somegals don’t!  Arlene reacts to gentle and soft speaking resident assistants way better than the rough and hard type.  She is much more cooperative; she can figure those folks out real fast.  And Arlene has less than half a brain.  Because who they are, their approach to Arlene is much different.  Some of those employees are very kind, sweet, tender and have very good hearts (i.e. my kind of folks).  

We have to make sure that you and I move on; the story will continue folks!  WorldClassLarry says—Thirty years from now, much of the stuff that we think is sooooo important will have no importance.  None!  Actually, maybe a week from now!  It appears that folks who can’t move on, really have a problem.

The story goes on from my trip.  I stopped at the Hot Springs pool in Glenwood Springs, CO on the way back from UT.  It it's good enough for Teddy Roosevelt, it's good enough for me.  I walked in the hot mineral water and then sat in the therapeutic end of the pool where the water is about 104 degrees.  A guy sits by me and he talks.  He was from Cincinnati and winters near Aspen.  I asked him if he skies--of course I ski; two years ago I skied at Snowmass 149 times--that is how many days they were open--I skied every day, didn't miss one--skied from open to close with a minimum of 8 runs a day--got a congratulatory letter and gifts from the CEO.  How old are you anyway--I'm 82.  And I plan to do that again this year. And the story continues. 

  

I saw this decoration in a neat person’s bathroom who is both sweet and kind. I know many nice, kind folks (i.e. many of you are that way).  I know many sweet females and tender guys (i.e. many of you are that way).  BUT I don’t think sweetness and tenderness can be learned like niceness and kindness.  Sweet and tender folks are usually nice and kind folks, but nice and kind folks aren’t always sweet and tender. ItchieBitchie says—I also know folks who aren’t sweet and tender or nice and kind.

And the story continues.  A few years ago, my wife and I (i.e. Michiganers) flew to Hong Kong to do a seminar for some of our missionaries. About halfway through the 17-hour flight, we went through the most horrendous storm. We were pitching and jolting. The plane was tilting, and everybody was getting antsy. They were obviously disturbed by the circumstances. The crew asked over the speaker, “Is there a minister on the plane?” I raised my hand. They approached me and said, “Everyone’s pretty upset because of the flight. Can you do something spiritual?” So I took an offering!

I asked one guide, what is best source of leads for you and your company.  He said—Reviews on trip advisor.  I was surprised.  He asked all of us, if we had a good time, if we would write a review.  He also said—most folks don’t.  I will.  I liked him.  He did a good job.  We have a tendency to complain when things aren’t good but don’t respond when things went well. Do you like it when folks tell you that you did a good job?  That is what I thought.

We bought an old antique regulator school clock maybe 30 years ago.  You old-timers might have wound it when you were a kid at your one-room schoolhouse; you never know. ANYWAY, Arlene really liked it soooo we bought it.  It has been tic tocking for all that time. A few days ago, it quit.  I tried to start it several times but no success.  Then I wondered if it was maybe a little off balance hanging on the wall (i.e. not level enough).  Bingo.  It won’t work if it’s not pretty level.  That is sorta kinda like me; when I’m a little off balance, I don’t tic toc very well or not at all.  Such is life.

A gal in our hiking group in UT was 49.  She told us that she has gained and lost 100 pounds 5 times in her life; she said it happened each time she got pregnant.  The story continues.

I lost my phone in the open range of the back country in UT while driving a Polaris side by side in some deep sand and rocks.  I was mad at myself as I didn’t use enough caution (i.e. I always zipped it in my hiking pants but forgot this time).  It’s nothing that money couldn’t fix!  When we got back to Kanab, I went to the Family Dollar store and bought a burner phone.  It amazed me the phone was $20 and the SIM card for 60 minutes for 90 days was $15. The gal who waited on me was a nice gal who was about 20, had a lot of body piercing and also heavily tattooed.  She activated it for me. I got the right person to help me (i.e. she was very nice--I offered to tip her, but she declined). Stuff happens folks.  I told our son that I felt guilty at times during the trip that Mom could not be with me.  He asked me—Dad, what are the alternatives (i.e. other possible scenarios)?  I said—I don’t think there are any others.  Sooooo there, you answered your question.  Ya gotta move on the best you can.  I guess much like my lost phone situation.

Both of our guides were raised Mormon but neither one are currently practicing Mormons; they are called Jack Mormons (i.e. I have no reason why they are called that).  One guide said he put ex-lax in the pancakes when he was a kid and got kicked out and the other one said he likes to drink, smoke and drink coffee.  One of those guides said that he worships the Spirit every day out in the beautiful creation.  The story continues.

 A friend sent me a text that she heard a sermon last Sunday that God sees the big picture and we don’t (i.e. some folks might not agree with that—they think they know everything). I heard a sermon recently when the pastor (i.e. who was a female—I realize that some of you don’t accept female pastors sooooo you probably won’t listen to this—that is your choice) started her talk saying—Is it more important to have a fish on the back of your car or help someone in need?  Is it more important to go to church all the time or actually be kind?  And the story continues; whichever story you like.

Both of our guides moved to this area of the country to be in the wide-open spaces and to enjoy the geography and wilderness.  Their move was a planned move to enjoy their life and their lifestyle.  Both are very adventurous and seem to really enjoy traveling.  They both seemed to be doing what they really enjoy doing. And the story continues.

In John Grisham’s new book, The Guardians, Cullen Post is visiting with police chief Bruno McKnatt about his involvement in the investigation of a murder of some 22 years ago.  After the conversation, Post said about McKnatt—There is more to his story.  He saw right through him; he has seen folks like this before.  I have that feeling with folks sometimes.  Do you?  The feeling that there is more to a person’s story than what they are telling me!

This “It’s Saturday” is just a is merism about “stuff” but you get the idea, maybe. And maybe not. This “It’s Saturday” doesn’t contain the same ingredients that the energy bars Heather picked out for me for my hiking but they both share the same ingredient that is not in the bars or this “It’s Saturday” either!  LuckieEddie says--Well, that might be a matter of opinion. Now we will never know for sure will we! Either way folks, suck it up cupcake and let’s get going! We’re burnin’ daylight!

I would guess that there is more to your story than what I know about you and/or what you have told me!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFriendJean says—To have joy one must share it.  Happiness was born a twin.

different world

A friend sent me this saying she saw on a bumper sticker—Great minds think a hike. Hikes! Many times hikes give me the awareness to look at things differently—they give me a refreshing and positive spin. Usually it’s a temporary spin but can be permanent.  For me, it’s hard to determine many times as some things get in my craw and I don’t even know they are there, and they affect me forever (i.e. how will I know; it’s subconscious maybe).  Such is life.

What do you spend a lot of time thinking about?  Really!  Many folks spend a lot of time thinking about depressing things. And some think a lot about spirit, relationships and health.  I read this what Paul says--Paul’s list of the fruit of the Spirit are: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. Virtues—and their opposite, vices—are not passive manifestations. They are the result of the choices we make to pursue godliness (moral excellence) or not.  JoeBlow says—What you think is what you’ll be.

Rafael Badziag, who studies the psychology of entrepreneurship, interviewed 21 billionaires and found they all had the same six core habits: (1) They wake up early; (2) they keep healthy and exercise regularly; (3) they are avid readers; (4) they take time to contemplate and think; (5) they develop routines and rituals; (6) they practice discipline and self-control.  Some think being a billionaire is overrated.  I really don’t know and never will.  But I do think that folks who have adequate income have options compared to those who don’t (i.e. that is the way it looks to me). ANYWAY, it appears that folks who have an acute desire about anything seem to succeed in their desires more that folks who don’t.  I think they live in a different world. What do you think? That is what I thought.

JoeRich told me—erv, I don’t have to work for a living as I’m rich. Yep, my parents were independently wealthy and passed their wealth onto me.  They were in iron and steel; mom ironed during the day and my dad would steal at night.

While eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it, I read this--Being established in “a different World” requires continual reading, studying, pondering, applying, and sharing. Little happens without steady habits, and habits are hard to sustain unless we work energetically to establish them. Reaching goals requires commitment and consistency. To live a godly life, we must diligently develop a heart of devotion and engage the habit of godliness. OneSmartPerson said--Self-control is the exercise of inner strength under the direction of sound judgment that enables us to think, and say and do the correct things.

I try sometimes try to make life perfect.  It can’t be done; I know that, but I still try sometimes.  Maybe age helps me get over that crazy thinking.  ANYWAY, I met some folks from Boston at the look out at Bryce Nat Park.  They invited me to hike with them.  They asked me—What are you doing coming this far to hike.  I said—great question! Happenstance, na, I don’t think soooo.  They were very nice folks and we had a great conversation. They told me what I’m trying to do will take some time.

Hugh Blair, an 18^th-century Scottish minister, wrote, “He who every morning plans the transaction of the day, and follows out that plan, carries on a thread which will guide him through the maze of the most busy life. But where no plan is laid, where the disposal of time is surrendered merely to the chance of incidents, all things lie huddled together in one chaos.”  Now that is what hiking can do to me; put me in a different world.  Yes it can. CoachB says—If you want to get out of your hole, you need to put down the shovel. 

Look at the beauty of life and my surroundings and not the negative stuff that appears has and does affect my subconscious; gradually can and will change my mindset a.k.a. the space between my ears.  If I can execute better, I think I will be going in the right direction (i.e. changing my mindset—some mindsets are easier to change than others—are you an easy one).

I have been trying to teach our grandkids to look me in the eye when talking to me (i.e. not just me but everyone).  They seem to be in a different world. The other morning at breakfast I was talking to Rookie; Rookie, look at me, I’m talking to you.  He said—Grandpa, I can hear you!  After our 3-mile family hike, I got the grandkids’ attention by taking them out for ice cream. It works.  Every time. Never fails.  Guaranteed success and results.  No question.

I read this early one morning --Some things naturally go together—salt and pepper, bread and butter, pencil and paper, needle and thread, hiking shoes and hiking. When it comes to direction in my life, I must have a devoted heart and disciplined habits. LuckieEddie says—erv, it’s hard to be of strong mind all the time.  It sure is LuckieEddie; it sure is. You either have to be very smart or really dumb or go hiking!

I have read Viktor Frankl’s book Man’s Search for Meaning several times.  Frankl was a Jewish psychiatrist who was taken to one of the death camps in Nazi Germany. All of his family and all of his friends were gassed and murdered. He talks in his book about a day he stood in front of the Gestapo stark naked. They’d taken away the prisoners’ clothes and even Frankl’s wedding ring. As he stood there with nothing at all, he suddenly realized there was one thing the Nazis could not take away from him: his choice of how he would respond. Dr.J says--When you stay focused on your purpose instead of your problem, you can be happy even when life seems to be falling apart. That can be hard to do sometimes; yes it can.  BUT it really does produce good results (i.e. my opinion). It can and will put you in a different world.  Folks, that is exactly what my trek to CO and UT hopefully does for me.  I need to refocus. 

MissPerfect says—Sooooo erv, what’s the “big deal” about changing your perspective?  There are some others, many others, or maybe all folks who are in this same situation at some time in their life with a poor perspective.  MissPerfect, I’m not a “big deal.”  It’s just that I want to modify my perspective.  Others might also want tooooo and many maybe don’t want toooo.  I’m not special in any way.  I’m just erv; I realize that.  It’s an individual thing, I think. It’s like a new adventure; a new challenge. I think it’s an opportunity and a choice. I think it might make my life better.  What do you think?  That is what I thought. My new tee shirt about says it all.

You ever waddle through the mud and the next day you get up and waddle through the mud again.  You do this every day for a long time.  It gets pretty ugly folks; it just ain’t no fun.  My trip to CO, UT, and then back to CO is getting me out of the mud for a number of days; more than a short respite.  Some folks tell me it takes a week before you start to unwind (i.e. get rid of my stinkin’ thinkin’).  We will see.  Maybe it will be a whole different world for me.  JoeBlow says—erv, first things first!  Don’t get the cart before the horse. A friend told me recently that I have to get tougher. Hikes!  When Erin and I did a 2.5 mile hike together in CO, I found that she was tougher than me.  Hikes

Onesmartperson said—The universe is like a safe to which there is a combination, but the combination is locked up in the safe.  Figure out that combination we can change our world alright. That is what hiking can do for me.  I want and am debriefing myself and also, hopefully, decompressing myself.  I have been compressing for tooooo long.  I want to change what I spend most of my time thinking about (i.e. not good, my opinion).

They say that these rock formation are maybe190 million years old.  When I think about that and look at them, well now, that is a different world for me.  Did some side by side 4-wheeling and hiking in the Kanab Canyon. I was told that these trails in the Public Land will take me to three other states.  Wow!  Now that is a different world; that is huge massive. I stayed in UT, I think! 

I talked to Matt in Kanab. He was from England and his girlfriend is from OH. They are traveling the world. He writes traveling articles and his friend writes for a magazine. They live in this van. That is their water storage. He said some paint them black to warm the water and shower out the back. Now that is a different world.

I love the story about the man who sized up God in prayer one day. “God, how long is a billion years to you?” God said, “A billion years is like a second.” Then the man asked, “How much is a billion dollars to you?” God said, “A billion dollars is like a penny.” The man smiled and said, “Could you spare me a penny?” God smiled back and said, “Sure, just wait a second.”  Saturday question—How long is eternity? C’on erv, every Tom, Dick and Harry knows that answer!

Soooooo how did my hiking affect me? Really God only knows.  I might thing it did in a certain way but maybe it affected me in many ways.  I don’t know for sure. BUT, I do know it’s good for me to get away from my normal environment and think.  It has to be, doesn’t it! We went to Bear Valley Church last Sunday.  I agree with the pastor who said—The Hope in Jesus gives us endurance. The Holy Spirit gives us Joy that strives in midst of suffering.  Those assurances can put me in a different world.  Oh ya.

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans! (:-

erv 

MyFriendJean says—In life, the review mirror is always clearer than the windshield.

flash point

GuiltyOnAllAccountsMildred says--If you dance with the devil long enough, he’s going to step on your toes (i.e. there is a flash point).  JailBirdJoe who is guilty as charged says--No question. Put that in your gizzard and grind on it for a while.

Miss Schmit was our chemistry teacher in good ol’ Danube High.  I liked the lab the best when we could make explosions (i.e. flash points).  The rest I didn’t care for tooooo much. ChemistSarah says—Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in. I knew at that point I wasn’t going to be a chemist, but I didn’t have a clue what I was going to be or wanted to be.  You remember all those assembly programs we had at school?  You know when everyone gathered in the gym and had a program of some sort.  Some of those were really good.  One thing I remember of one of those assemblies was a guy who threw up some fine saw dust in the air and ignited it with a torch; it was a huge massive explosion, well, huge massive for me as I didn’t expect it (i.e. a flash point).  It really impressed me obviously.  But I can’t remember many symbols of the elements! 

My parents, Chester and Anna, influenced my life even though they only lived to their mid-50s.  Yes, they did.  Did I retain and believe everything they said or tried to teach me? No way!  My opinion is that parenting is sooooo important.  Many times we can look at the parents and their children and they are just carbon copies (i.e. and sometimes not so much—and sometimes not even partial carbon copies).  BUT (i.e. my opinion) it’s a lot better to teach children good stuff than bad stuff.  What do you think?  That is what I thought. You as parents are leaders if you like it or not.  A nephew-in-law shared some “big picture” themes about leadership.  I am trying to keep them to a minimum or you won’t read them.  I know folks like you; I’m one! ha-ha  These are only reminders.  I was telling a business leader about this and he said—Most everyone knows them but if folks don’t implement them, they are useless.  He sorta kinda thinks that basic leaders are born with skills.  What do you think?  That is what I thought.  WorldClassLarry says—There are folks in leadership positions but are not leaders and there are folks who are not in leadership positions but are leaders.  WorldClassLarry, I think we all know both kind of folks.  Yes we do.

Okay, here are the reminders of great leadership qualities a.k.a. “big picture” themes that he shared with me (i.e. he sent me 20 pages of notes from the Global Leadership Summit he attended)—#1 reason why organizations loose quality people is from poor leadership. Leaders lead with profound humility.  When leaders get better, everyone gets better. A humble leader can learn from anyone.  Respected leaders are trusted—respected leaders make you feel valued; Make you feel inspired; Make you feel empowered.  I realize your flash point is here; you have had enough!  Boooom, this is over! Such is life.

The guy from north of town says--Life on this earth and even eternity are both pretty much a mystery; we cannot really fully predict what will happen; it’s somewhat an exciting realty (i.e. reality can be both good and bad). LuckieEddie says—I’m pretty much in control of everything; he’s not folks; he just thinks he is.  He will learn that; no question. There could be many flash points.  Saturday question—Have you experienced any flash points in your life in which you said “holy cow?”  A friend gave me the book Wooden A Lifetime of Observations And Reflections On And Off The Court by John Wooden in 1997.  I have read it many times and think it makes sense.  I don’t know if the current culture buys into it as much as my generation, but Mr. Wooden is still quoted a lot sooooo maybe it still makes sense (i.e. he is considered a great leader by many).  I was by the post office the other day and I ran into a friend (i.e. he was our manager on our hs basketball team that I coached maybe 45 years ago).  He told me that he has cancer.  He is a good guy and takes very good care of himself.  Yes, the mystery of life.

While eating my oatmeal with half a banana on it, I read this by Dr.J--We can never improve ourselves in any lasting, significant way without the grace of God. We need for Him to begin a good work in us, and then we need to remember that the One who started His work will finish it. Be patient. God is not finished with you yet. This part is my opinion--when we can understand some of that, it’s a flash point.  It’s a goodie goodie, like a Nut Goodie bar from MN (i.e. my Daddy, Chester’s favorite candy bar)!  “Every human being is under construction from conception to death.”--Billy Graham

A friend told us recently that he used to work in a place that he met and engaged with many customers.  It has been some time ago but now when he sees them, it seems like they don’t pay any attention to him.  He was wondering why that was.  Well, relationships surely do change for thousands and thousands of reasons.  And time is one of them.  Some relationships reach flash points and disintegrate; they just blow up for some reason (e.g. one person in the relationship thinks it’s all one sided).  SusieQ says—As we grow older, move around, develop different interests, get in contact with different folks, etc., relationships are bound to change and even disappear.  SocialBetty says—I want to be friends with everyone.  But SocialBetty, not everyone wants to be friends with you or everyone else (i.e. some folks prefer not to have close friends).  Some of my friends will always be my friends even if we don’t see each other as much as we used tooooo; you are just that type of friends (i.e. you guys are the best; you know who you are).  Sooooo my friend—I don’t think folks ignore you because you have bad body odor. But to be on the save side, have your wife smell you before you go out next time!  Such is life.

JoeBlow says—Sometimes when we are in a hard place, we have a tendency to pray more (e.g. like looking death in the face—a flash point).  You believe that? That is what I thought.  Someone asked a friend if he prays much.  He said—No, not very much; I pray some but I don’t know if my “not very much” is a lot (i.e. compared tooooo others). I think prayer is good and is very uplifting and assuring.  It might not be to you for whatever reason. It is what it is.  BUT, try it, you might like it.  I know the price is in your budget.  haha  PrayingJoe said--As you pray, ask God to give you “a spirit . . . of power and love and self-control.” CrazyMarvin says—Yikes, I could sure use a dose of those qualities (i.e. now can’t we all).  Such is life.

I had the privilege to attend the funeral of our daughter-in-law, Jessica’s, mother.  The families of both sides were well represented in supporting and sharing the grief with her husband and children, and husbands and grand kids.  I think a lot of flash points probably. I know I had many.  I had a couple of unique flash points. One was when a close friend of Missy came and sat by me and talked.  I asked her what she really remembered about Missy.  She told me straight out and we laughed (i.e. she was soooo real).  The other one was the burial of her ashes at the small, beautiful, old rural cemetery on a little hill overlooking the rolling farm ground of NW IL about 12 miles east of the Mississippi (i.e. one of the brothers, Berry, said to me—it’s in the middle of nowhere).  It was this area where Tom and Missy met at school, where their families lived and now where her ashes are being buried (i.e. just a couple of miles from the Free family farm).  It was like Americana.  I think the inurnment experience was very touching for all (i.e. another flash point). It was very real. Talk about being real. I got this email from a golf buddy/friend--erv..... Had a dog fight going on recently....5 years ago I lost 25 #...over the years 12 came back....do I want to bother taking them off or not   "dieting is a pain"  I'm down about 9 and hungry.   If a person is a know it all..prideful....old age will trim their sails. You find you don't know half of what you thought you did.

CadillacJack says--Some folks like to learn by different methods.  Some folks like lectures, some prefer studies, and some prefer discussions.  Some are better teachers using these different methods as well.  Some folks prefer lecturing soooo they don’t have to participate or even pay attention (e.g. go to church and hear a preacher preach; if they get bored or don’t agree, they can daydream). Some lecturers have better methods of keeping folks engaged than others. No question.  Some folks are better discussion leaders than others. No question.  Okay, here is my idea a.k.a. an opinion.  I think small rural churches should consider simulcasting a speaking pastor who is really good at speaking and hiring a part-time parish pastor who is really good at this form of nurturing (i.e. who is dynamic) to do the local pastoring (i.e. even share this pastor with another church). Large churches are sorta kinda using this method now and it seems to be working.  I’m just throwing it out there.  Here is a cute story told me by a friend—They, when visiting some family, attend this certain large church. They use technology in many ways.  The pastor did a recorded message that morning.  He told his wife that it was a recording after the service.  She said no way, I saw him walk out there.  They use a large screen that looks soooo real that she was fooled the whole service.  Something else—church is different than business, church will share stuff at a fraction of the cost as they want to promote the Good News.  And digital equipment is relatively inexpensive.

Talk about digital equipment.  A friend who is involved with advertising (i.e. maybe she and her two other marketing friends are the ones who came up with idea of sending 88 year old GrandpaJim all those calenders—explain later—it’s a teaser), told me that she can find out anything about anyone who ever put anything on social media no matter how they think they have deleted it.  Sooooo think about that when posting something.  You might think you are funny or smart or whatever, but they can find who you really are (i.e. your character).  Sooooo it’s not good to use social media folks for many things (i.e. my opinion).  It could really haunt you.  I ask what good is it?

This time of the year I have sorta kinda a flash point when we have to decide where we are going to give toooo.  We get many invites in the mail and other places (i.e. 88 year old Grandpa Jim told us he has got 30 calenders soooo far this year asking for donations—maybe those pretty 3 marketing girls came up with this idea haha).  I’m sure you have also.  Sooooo here is how I somewhat decide—It comes from the philosophy of Marie Curie who said—“You cannot hope to build a better world without improving the individuals.  To that end each of us must work for his own improvement, and at the same time share a general responsibility for all humanity, our particular duty being to aid those to whom we think we can be most useful.” I must also admit that we have some pet organizations that have really helped us or someone we know personally in the past and we will always give to them because of our appreciation.  And some not soooo much, particularly if we wonder if they don’t manage the gifts very well (i.e. we don’t get much bang for our buck).

Last Sunday afternoon, I was going to jog on the golf course but there was a tournament out there soooo I ran on the street.  I ran into two neat, spicial gals/friends who gave me such good advice (i.e. I really needed it—perfect timing).  Happenstance, na I don’t think sooooo.  They both really affected me—a flash point. Crazy!

I’m in CO and getting a good dose of Erin and Jimmer (i.e. a lot of flash points—plum opportunities).  No school for Erin yesterday sooooo I had some quality one-on-one with Erin. She seems different when alone with me than when her parents are with us.  Why is that do you think? Maybe if she was around me all the time, she might act different or is it differently or either one (i.e. I didn't like English class either).  It’s like a honeymoon in marriage, work, or any relationship.  It seems that it takes about a year and then you find out who that “masked person” really is. I seem to be learning not to expose myself all the time to certain folks as it might come back and haunt me (i.e. used against me, bite me in the butt—better to maybe just lay in the weeds—there will always be another day). And maybe that’s not a good idea.  I don’t know! There are pros and cons! Such is life.

Erin and I walked down to the Corner Store soooo I could buy a Denver Post.  We walked past a neighbor’s van which had this on the back window.  I asked Erin about it and she said—It’s a bit weird.  I laughed but had a flash point and wondered if she thinks that of me sometimes.  ANYWAY, I know how to make Erin even sweeter, even happier and maybe even a little hyper.  Oh ya!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFriendJean says—No matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

take a stand

Sun Tzu, an ancient Chinese military strategist, wrote, “If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler’s biding. Listen folks, this "It's Saturday" is not abstract algebra or quantitative methods in economics, it just erv's thinking of common sense.  But your common sense might be different.  Take that in consideration; spin it the way you want. And you will be happy.

Have you ever had an internal battle going on; a real dog fight in your mind or your heart?  C’mon, you all have.  Probably many times.  Here is an example I had recently—Should I run or should I not.  One dog said I should as it is good for me and the other dog said I shouldn’t as my body is tired and my knees hurt.  It was quite a battle alright.  Recently I had the opportunity to bike with a friend who we became friends in our winters in AZ.  He now has some health issues and was telling me that he can’t do things like he used tooooo.  He really struggles with that.  He told me that he has made up his mind to just give up some of the activities he has done in the past (i.e. he feels he just can’t do them).  One of the dogs won.  Maybe you are in disagreement with someone about something and you decide you are no longer going to dispute the issue; it’s not worth it.  One of the dogs have won.  These decisions or similar decisions have given you a different stand on the situation.  Maybe for some reason you see it differently; maybe clearer through wisdom or facts or age or you have changed.  I didn’t run that morning; I really believe it was the best decision.  The next day I did. Oh, by the way, the dog that wins always is the dog you feed the most!

He was a monk and said this to his fellow monks the first time he tasted champagne.  Obviously, this was his opinion, but his statement has lasted for a long time.  I think it’s funny.  Others don’t; they might think it’s a terrible expression.  Seeee, folks don’t all think alike.  What one person thinks is sooooo important that they would put their life on the line for, another person doesn’t think it’s really that important (e.g. abortion or mistreatment of a dog).  Such is life. 

Some of you might be radical and very closed minded. If you are, you do not need to read this paragraph.  You are wasting your time.  Just skip this paragraph and move on to the next.  Some folks say that it appears that some folks are sooooo black and white that they are closed minded and are sure they are right. This paragraph will just put a “I am right and everyone else is wrong” look on your face (i.e. real ugly and I don‘t like to see you that way).  If your family decides to embalm you and put you in a casket for everyone to look at you, will you still have that “I am right and everyone else is wrong” look on your face? Hey, you might be right and then you might not be.  Ok, for the rest of you, read on.  But some folks change; yes they do (e.g. farmers years ago said they would never take government assistance; they all do now). Here is another example that is funny to me—A friend told me that they had a pastor who was very black and white about divorce; now that three of his daughters are divorced; he’s grayer.  I have a friend who has been programed very black and white (i.e. he admits it) but says he’s becoming grayer (i.e. I don’t believe him yaya). Some folks think radicals are very black and white (i.e. no bending or discussion; they are right for sure).  What do you think?  That is what I thought. I was told of a pastor who said that maybe their denomination might not have the corner on theology (i.e. his congregation and denomination didn’t like that statement).  Another pastor has been known to say when asked about the interpretation of some verses in the Bible—There are many Bible scholars who interpret it differently, but my interpretation is….  Saturday question—Can theology become ideology?

Dr.J says--"What about theology—the study of God? Though only three letters—GOD—no other subject overwhelms our mind more. God is infinite in every way and all His attributes are eternal. His existence is unending; His holiness undying; His qualities non-contradicting. The study of God is full of mystery and paradox, but never illogical. While we can’t fully understand all there is to know about God, we can always strive to know Him better."  I agree Dr.J, His understanding I cannot fathom.  But then again, I'm just a little ol' farm boy from a mile and fourth south of Roseland, MN. 

A friend told me that there are maybe about six things that he won’t compromise on.  He might bend and be tolerable about other issues but not on these 6.  He didn’t tell me what those 6 issues or believes are. Sooooo I text him later and asked what they were.  He called me and said—erv, you are making me accountable!  We laughed.  But he did send me five of his believes that he will not bend on (i.e. taking a stand).  Here is his avowal—"I believe in the triune God: God the Father; God the Son; and God the Holy Spirit.  The Creator of all things, who reigns overall. I believe in Jesus the Christ, the Son, who was born of a virgin, lived and was crucified and died for man’s sins.  Who rose from the grave, and assented into Heaven.  Christ fully God and fully man. I believe the Bible is complete and true, and God’s Word to mankind. I believe the only way to God is through His Son, Jesus the Christ. I believe in heaven and hell, and life everlasting in Christ.” My friend is a pretty much a normal person. haha I think a pretty much average guy.  Not much different than you or me. These believes are pretty much the foundation of Christianity, I think.  He didn’t mention any rituals of his denomination or his interpretation of certain Bible verses.  How come I wonder!!!

It appears that when folks really get upset and decide to take a stand, there is sometimes some form of war.  In war, the military takes a stand.  Won’t back down.  They dig in.  They fight it out.  The winner takes the spoils.  Have you ever read about Custer’s last stand?  It didn’t go well for him; that is why they call it his last stand.  Yikes. There are a lot of other wars that go on when folks dig in and the winner takes the spoils.  Usually war is not pretty; a lot of casualties.  I don’t like wars.  It appears that some of the wars are over issues of really non-important stuff like egos or money.  Let’s face it folks.  A lot of that stuff will be forgotten 6 months from now and for sure 30 years from now, they will have no importance.  They are sooooo trivial. But 2 sides sometimes will dig in and fight it out.  And then there are folks who don’t think the issues are that important and go and get lost; let the black and white folks fight it out.

The “Opinion Page” isn’t really taking a stand or is it? A smart friend and I recently had a conversation; I pretty much listened.  He was telling me that he feels (i.e. his opinion) that there is no way our current direction of our values, morals etc. will ever change without a disaster a.k.a. calamity or catastrophe.  He thinks it’s impossible; folks don’t want to take a stand.  I read this in the paper, soooooo it must be right, that the temperature is rising pretty fast.  Maybe that might be the event in which half the folks on earth will die; now that would get our attention.  You think?  You say—That can’t and won’t happen; science will figure something out; they won’t let that happen.  Da!  MissPerfect says--erv, that comment is like Orson Welles’ radio story in 1930 that the Martians are invading New Jersey! 

Let's get physical Get down, get hard, get mean Let's get physical And beat that other team!   GeorgeTheCrook says—Talk is cheap but to take a stand is way different.  You might be right GeorgeTheCrook; a lot of people talk big but when it comes tooooo money or politics, or God, they act way different.  Or as SusieQ says—The same folks act/talk differently during the week than they do in church on Sunday or when they have to put their money on the line.  It’s football season (i.e. also a season for pumpkins and spider webs); it’s a time when we hear the TV announcer say—They have put in their heaviest, strongest, meanest defensive linemen to have a goal line stand at the one-yard line.  Then the cheerleaders arose the crowd in chanting—Hold ‘em hold ‘em hold’ em!  Sometimes they do and sometimes they don’t.  LuckieEddie says--BUT it does help if you have good players doing the “hold ‘em” for the goal line stand. 

It appears that some folks think they are above the law (i.e. they are supreme beings they think).  Some find out the hard way that they are not.  UCLA coach Chip Kelly was succinct when asked his opinion of California’s new law that would allow college athletes to be paid for the use of their names and likenesses.  “It doesn’t matter what we think. It’s the law,” Kelly said.

Not for me Charlie Brown!  Have you ever taken a stand (i.e. knowing you’re are right) only to find out later that your stand was not correct?  And you were soooooo sure you were right!  I have and others, I think, have tooooo.  Recently I thought I would pass some information onto someone that I thought could really help them.  They didn’t think the information was for them.  Sooooo I wondered why they took their stand against it.  You know what, they had their reasons.  Toooo me it was a no brainer but not toooo them.  They have their choice.  I realize that there are times that others gave me their advice and I didn’t take it; it’s wasn’t for me (i.e. it just didn’t fit for me).  Soooooo there you go.  I enjoy researching; like calling folks for information about something.  Yes, it takes time, but I can learn sooooooo much.  I call some of you sometimes for that reason.  Many folks are sooooo helpful.  My Daddy, Chester, would say—erv, the best way to learn is to ask questions. Yabut, it’s a lot better to ask smart, experienced folks the questions than your neighbor who just thinks he knows everything. He’s the guy who wears a big cowboy hat but never owned any cattle. I was told this story that is sorta kinda personal to me.  A person came to the memory unit and started a conversation with a resident.  The resident told him that he has been reading the Wall Street Journal and has invested a large amount of money in a certain company based on all his research.  A little later he was talking to a family member of that resident and asked why he is he in the memory unit.  He just told me where to invest my money.  The family member said—he can’t read and surely hasn’t read the Wall Street Journal. Besides that, he has no money; he’s on title 19! Oh!

The conclusion of the matter is (i.e. well, maybe it is)—I think there is a season for everything, and we do change with the seasons.  I think for the most part when we mature, we become more humble; we seem to have a tendency to look at things differently (i.e. we maybe see that we don’t know everything and don’t need to be a “know it all” because the reality is we don’t know it all). Maybe, I’m just talking about myself. I read this—"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord…My ways are higher than your ways.  Maybe that is why I don’t know everything and seem to learn daily that I know less. JoeKnowItAll says--Well erv, whoop-de-doo!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFriendJean says—Live fully, laugh uncontrollably, love unconditionally.

therefore

CadillacJack says--This “It’s Saturday’ could be a bunch of hooey a.k.a. B-S! Therefore, take that into consideration when reading this version. ItchieBitchie (i.e. a real SpaceXrocket) says—A blindfold and set of darts might be a more accurate method of prognostication as to what is true and what isn’t. JoeSmart says—Therefore, it’s a regular crap shoot.

Sooooo many times when folks say--“He couldn’t see the forest for the trees” it suggests that folks are getting too close to a problem and it blinds them of the “bigger picture.” Therefore, step back and refocus your perspective.  A young, cute, little Occupational Therapist who works with Arlene told me that she was taught that sometimes caregivers get toooo optimistic when they see a little improvement of a love one’s physical improvement.  Folks with Alzheimer’s don’t get better but only get worse.  She also said that some caregivers are pretty pessimistic because they have heard or read how the disease progresses.  She said, I need to be realistic. 

I read this in the Star Tribune (i.e. it made me laugh; it’s about reality)—‘Fast’ and ‘dump’ After two rough loses, including a 38-13 thrashing by No. 19 Utah on Saturday night, Washington State coach Mike Leach described the Cougars as “fat, dumb, happy, and entitled.”  “We’re a very soft team,” Leach said.  “We get a lot of good press. We like to read it a lot. We like to pat ourselves on the back and if we get any resistance, we fold.”

 I’m really a case alright.  I remember what I should forget and forget what I should remember.  But the other day I did remember something that was touching to me.  Yes I did.  Something from Christi who is an account manager.  She called me and discussed our situation.  She said—erv, you no longer need to be a caregiver as much but can be more of a husband to Arlene again.  I thought that was sooooo neat/kind for her to say that (i.e. she said it in a soft, gentle tone).  She didn’t have tooooo (i.e. I think she was just being herself).  I would guess she is a neat gal.  What do you think?  That is what I thought. 

I had the opportunity to drink some coffee early Saturday morning with Chet and Jessica and the grand kids on their deck. This is sooooo much fun for me.  ANYWAY, Charlie and I did a collage for Arlene’s shadow box that is outside her door at the memory unit.  It was really fun.  Sooooo, those of you who know Arlene you don’t have to look at it; you know her.  But those of you who don’t know my sweet, kind Arlene a.k.a. my girl, the collage might give you somewhat of a “big picture” of who she was/is.  I think Charlie and Rookie enjoyed that I let them use my computer, more than anything, to watch YouTube videos of unicorns and dinosaurs (i.e. spot on).  The world is much different than when I was a kid.  Such is life.

I read another one of Louis L’Amour’s books called Dark Canyon.  I enjoy his books and I know some of you do tooooo.  Many of his books are about the SW, a part of the U.S. that I really enjoy.  His books are fiction, and maybe this statement he made in this book is fiction toooooo, but it made me laugh—Trouble is born of rumor, and nine people out of ten will repeat a rumor—consciously or unconsciously adding their bit.  Therefore folks, it would appear that Louis is saying—Don’t believe any rumors you hear.  But folks like rumors it seems.

Arlene’s beautician and long-time friend has been soooooo nice to her when doing her hair.  I think she is talented in caring for older folks and for folks with dementia.  Besides being nice, she did an excellent job making Arlene’s hair looking nice and in a style that worked for us.  Sooooooo the beautician from the care facility calls her for some information as she is going to do her hair.  That was nice.  She told her that she is going to do Arlene’s hair; she said--her husband (i.e. that being me) has been cutting her hair and really butchers it (i.e. I have not cut Arlene’s hair). I will try to get it back in order. What was she thinking? No rumor, Arlene’s friend and beautician called and told me.  We both laughed.  Sooooo if you pass this on, you can add your little bit to even make it funnier. It is maybe funny enough! Saturday question—What would be the appropriate tip?

Soooooo I bike some in the Cedar Valley (i.e. some of the nicest trails in the state--my opinion).  Soooooo a part of a trail has been closed since spring as there was some damage due to flooding.  They put up this huge massive gate to keep folks out.  The sign says, “Trail Closed” as you can see in the picture (i.e. it’s as plain as day).  A friend told me that they go around it; we don’t pay any attention to it; there is some washing and there is a couple of spots that the trail‘s asphalt is only about 3 feet wide but there is no problem.  Sooooo I get to the sign and was taking this picture as I think it’s sooooo funny.  A senior lady comes up behind me on her bike.  I asked her if she rides around the gate—sure do; it’s been closed for 3 months and they don’t fix it soooo we ride around it.  Soooooo like some obnoxious, mischievous little boy, I ride around the gate/sign when I’m not suppose toooo.  Take my bike away! No ice cream for me! But my friend and this senor lady said I could!

Nolan Bushnell, the creator of the Atari video game system, once stated, “Everyone who’s ever taken a shower has had an idea.  It’s the person who gets out of the shower, dries off, and does something about it who makes a difference.”  I try to be a pro-active person instead of a reactive person but probably am both.  I have told you I get bored easily soooo that makes me be more pro-active, I think.  Therefore, I probably will take more risk than a person who is more of a reactive type of person (i.e. after the fact type person).  I try to make my risks high percentage, but they always don’t work the way they are suppose toooo. Some of you just think I’m crazy.  I understand that; especially you extreme conservative, reactive, black and white folks.  But I enjoy being around other crazy folks; many of those crazy folks are you.  In fact, I think many of you are crazier than me.  For some of you the craziest thing you ever did was eat your ice cream before your meal!  AverageJoe (i.e. a real strait-laced guy) says--No way Jose, I would never do anything that crazy!

SusieQ says--Nicknames can tell a lot who folks are sometimes! Look at your nickname or other folks’ nicknames.  Like Red, Slim, Weasel, Hoss, Toothpick, Uncle, Fuzz, Curly, Bumps, Rocket Brain, Grunt, Monkey, Blinker, Chunk, Homer, BudBoy, Peanut, etc. You get it.  Some nicknames are hurting to folks, some just funny, some weird, some make no sense and some God only knows.  Do males have more nasty nicknames than girls and which they actually call each other by these names?  What are some nicknames that you girls call each other?  Or do you just say them behind other girls’ backs?  ItchieBitchie says--Girls are toooo nice, they would never do anything like that; they just think it and say it under their breath.  Soooo some folks say girls and guys aren’t different. Many girls would cry if they would get called what guys call each other just in fun. Therefore, girls don’t do that and certainly guys don’t call girls by those bad nicknames. They call girls nicknames like cutty pie, sugar, sweetheart, love, etc.  It just makes life sooooo much easier when us guys do that! Therefore, we do it.

Sooooooo girl, you want to be successful.  First of all, we have to define success. Success can be a lot of things to different folks.  No one can define that for you; you have to define that for yourself.  My mentor use to kid me in saying—The world defines success by how much gold a person has.  And I think he was right.  But he also knew that success was something else.  That definition of success in our lives can be a struggle for us.  Yes, it can.  Unfortunately, there is no single, universal secret to success. Bookstores and libraries are filled with copies of books by authors who claim to know the secret. If we go to an online retail site that sells books, and enter “Success” in the search box, we can find numerous choices written by people who will tell us with great conviction how they achieved success. There are countless slogans, philosophies and strategies for becoming successful, but sometimes it helps to realize that while there is no magic, one-size-fits-all formula. For most people, success requires a few very simple ingredients, things that do not require very specific skill sets. If you define what success is for you and if success is what you seek, cultivate humility, stay hungry, and never stop working hard (i.e. that is my opinion—just another opinion—such is life). And therefore someday, you can say to yourself--Thatagirl!

I read this in the paper sooooo it must be right--To attract younger viewers, the International Olympic Committee is considering adding sports like skateboarding and breakdancing to future games. Next to come? Obstacle Course Racing may show up at the 2028 Los Angeles Summer games. OCR, as it’s called, is a race in which competitors try to overcome physical challenges in the form of obstacles. They must scale walls, crawl through mud, squirm under barb wire, jump through fire, and endure all kinds of hardships and hurdles. They said in the first sentence why they are doing that.  Da!  Therefore…!

RickyRick says—Therefore, you’ll never get over your hidden wounds until you face your feelings head-on by admitting them to God, yourself, and another person. (i.e. yikes)!  Many people try to move past their pain by admitting it to God and themselves, but then they skip the third part of the equation. It will never work. Admitting your pain to others is absolutely essential to your healing. Getting better depends on it.  I have to admit that I’m sad.  I think it will get better, but I think now that I will always have some sadness associated with Arlene not having a life that we wanted.  I don’t think it can be any different. I realize that probably many of you are sad about something as well and your sadness might not ever go completely away.  Therefore, we need to do the best we can.  BUT I am admitting that my sadness has affected me. Why wouldn’t it?  BUT I think I’m also happy at the same time.  I think I can be both. I hope I can be an Onesiphorus, he was a whiff of fresh air to Paul.  You know any refreshing people?  Those kinds of folks who pick you up when you’re down. They put a new heart in you. I want to be an Onesphorus. I’m describing some of you; yes I am. Go and get after it; go and kick some butt! You know if you are, and you know if you’re not!  Be real folks!

A friend told me recently (i.e. admitting her frustration) that she really has a hard time being pleasant and helpful to folks who have nasty attitudes.  I am guessing that is a rather universal feeling we all have to some degree.  And even some of us might be the one who has the nasty attitude all the time or some of the time.  If you were one of the folks with the nasty attitude, would you like someone to correct you?  Would you want to be the one to tell the person that they have a nasty attitude? AverageJoe says—That is what we hire the preacher to do, isn’t it! haha  HelpfulRita says—I’m sure our Thursday morning coffee group could help the pastor by giving the preacher a list they should go and talk toooooo!

Have a FUN day my friends unless you have other plans. (-:

erv

MyFriendJean says--Life is a great big canvas, throw all the pain on it you can.